In an open letter, the International Press Institute (IPI), the global network of editors, media executives and leading journalists in over 120 countries, criticises the ongoing failure of the Turkish government to reform the internationally denounced article 301 of the Turkish penal code. This criticism comes in the week of the first anniversary of the murder of Hrant Dink, a Turkish-Armenian journalist and IPI World Press Freedom Hero.

“Article 301, which criminalises ‘insults to Turkishness’, has serious ramifications for freedom of speech in Turkey,” said David Dadge, IPI Director.

“By silencing speech on certain issues, the article risks fuelling hatred and violence in Turkish society. Bearing in mind that Dink was murdered by a Turkish nationalist, it is possible that his murderer felt in some way justified by the fact that Dink had broken this pernicious law. Indeed, it is likely that he may have become a target in the first place due to the high profile nature of the trial.”

“For this reason, article 301 may encourage a vicious cycle of violence, leaving those brave enough to speak out on taboo subjects in Turkey isolated and possibly in grave danger.”

In the open letter, IPI strongly urges the government of Turkey to ensure that article 301 is repealed, along with other articles in the Turkish penal code which inhibit freedom of expression and which do not conform to the standards expected of a modern democracy.

>>Read IPI’s Open Letter to the Turkish Government on Article 301